Sun-Dried Tomato Pasta Recipe: Deliciously Creamy and Flavorful
If you’re looking for a pasta recipe that blends sun-dried tomatoes, creamy tomato sauce, and flavorful sausage, this dish is sure to impress.
This easy-to-make recipe offers a gourmet-style dinner that’s both savory and bursting with rich flavors.
Every bite of this Sun-Dried Tomato Pasta brings you the perfect combination of tender sausage, vibrant sun-dried tomatoes, and fresh spinach—all tossed in a velvety tomato cream sauce.
Whether you’re making dinner for the family or looking to impress guests, this dish delivers both simplicity and bold flavors.
How to Make Sun-Dried Tomato Pasta
Below is a step-by-step guide for creating this delicious dish. Be sure to review the recipe card for exact ingredient measurements and more detailed instructions.
Step 1: Brown the Sausage
Start by browning the Italian sausage on all sides. After searing, add a splash of chicken broth or water to steam the sausage until fully cooked. Set the sausage aside once done.
Pro Tip: We recommend using Bianco and Son’s Sweet Italian Sausage for the perfect balance of flavor. However, feel free to use any preferred brand of sausage. Make sure to check the cooking instructions on the package for best results.
Step 2: Deglaze the Skillet
After cooking the sausage, deglaze the skillet using white wine. This step is essential for extracting the flavorful brown bits from the bottom of the pan. Allow the wine to reduce by half before moving on to the next step.
Wine Tip: For this recipe, Sauvignon Blanc, Pinot Grigio, or Chardonnay works wonderfully. For non-alcoholic options, you can substitute chicken broth for the wine.
Step 3: Prepare the Sauce
In the same skillet, add garlic, butter, and flour to make a simple roux. Then, add tomato paste and slowly incorporate the sauce mixture by adding it in small splashes while stirring. Bring the sauce to a simmer.
Once the sauce begins to thicken, add sun-dried tomatoes and let the mixture come to a boil. Lower the heat to simmer again, then stir in cream cheese, Parmesan cheese, and fresh spinach.
Tomato Tip: Mezzetta sun-dried tomatoes are recommended for this recipe. Avoid varieties that come pre-seasoned, as they can alter the flavor balance of the dish. If you prefer, you can substitute with canned diced tomatoes or Rotel tomatoes for a spicier twist.
Step 4: Combine the Pasta and Sausage
After preparing the sauce, it’s time to toss in the cooked pasta and sliced sausage. Stir everything together to ensure the pasta is well coated with the creamy tomato sauce. Allow it to heat through for a couple of minutes, and you’re ready to serve!
Pasta Options: This recipe works well with several types of pasta, including penne, ziti, cavatappi, farfalle, and rigatoni. Choose whichever pasta suits your taste or what you have on hand.
Expert Cooking Tips for the Perfect Sun-Dried Tomato Pasta
- Parmesan Cheese: Always grate Parmesan cheese fresh from a block for the best flavor and smoothest melting. We recommend BelGioioso Parmesan for its quality.
- Cream Cheese: Opt for Philadelphia cream cheese in a tub rather than a block for easier melting into the sauce. The creamy texture is a game-changer for the sauce’s consistency.
- Flavor Enhancers: Add depth to your sauce with ingredients like a dash of hot sauce, a teaspoon of Dijon mustard for a tangy note, or soy sauce for an umami boost. If you don’t have soy sauce, Worcestershire sauce is a good substitute.
- Tomato Paste: Using Mutti Tomato Paste in a tube allows you to measure the exact amount you need without waste, making it both convenient and cost-effective.
Storing and Reheating Leftovers
If you have leftovers, store them in an airtight container. Sun-Dried Tomato Pasta can be refrigerated for up to 3 days or frozen for up to 3 months.
To reheat, use the microwave at 50% power or reheat in a saucepan over low heat. For best results, use the ‘melt’ setting on your microwave, or reheat in a makeshift double boiler.
Recommended Kitchen Tools for This Recipe
Having the right tools can make all the difference when preparing a dish like this:
- Stainless Steel Sauté Pan: A large, heavy-duty sauté pan is ideal for simmering the sauce and combining the pasta.
- Cheese Grater: Freshly grated cheese melts better and has a richer flavor compared to pre-shredded varieties.
- Silicone Spatulas: Use silicone spatulas to stir your sauce without scratching the surface of your pan.
- Measuring Spoons and Cups: Accurate measuring is essential for consistency, especially with ingredients like wine, tomato paste, and broth.
- Pasta Strainer: Drain your cooked pasta easily with a sturdy pasta strainer.
Conclusion
This Sun-Dried Tomato Pasta recipe combines the richness of a tomato cream sauce, the heartiness of sausage, and the brightness of sun-dried tomatoes and spinach for a delicious meal that will quickly become a family favorite.
Whether you’re looking for a simple weeknight meal or a dish to impress, this recipe is sure to satisfy.
With our tips and step-by-step guide, you can master this dish in no time. Try it out, and don’t forget to personalize it by using your favorite sausage or pasta!
For more incredible recipes, check out our free e-book packed with cozy dinner ideas.
FAQs
Can I make this recipe vegetarian?
Absolutely! Swap the sausage for a plant-based alternative, or use mushrooms for a similar hearty texture. Ensure you use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth to keep the dish vegetarian.
What can I use instead of white wine?
If you prefer not to use wine, substitute with chicken broth. It will still deglaze the pan nicely and add depth to the sauce.
How can I add a bit more heat to the recipe?
To spice things up, add a pinch of crushed red pepper flakes, or use Rotel tomatoes instead of sun-dried tomatoes for an extra kick of heat.
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